Things To Do
in Ad Dakhla
Ad Dakhla is a windswept coastal city on a long peninsula in Western Sahara, framed by the Atlantic and a sheltered turquoise lagoon. It blends Moroccan coastal culture with Sahrawi influences and a strong fishing heritage. The town is a magnet for kite and windsurfers, thanks to reliable sea breezes and expansive beaches.
Behind the sport, a welcoming community and fresh seafood offer a relaxed, authentic desert-ocean vibe.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Plage de Dakhla, where the golden sands meet the azure waters. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach, soaking in the serene atmosphere while the sun rises over the horizon. Stop by a local café for a fresh Moroccan breakfast featuring traditional pastries and mint tea.
Head to the Dakhla lagoon for an exciting afternoon of water sports like kite surfing and windsurfing, perfect for all skill levels. Marvel at the vibrant marine life as you take a refreshing swim or simply relax on the beach. Indulge in a beachside lunch, sampling local seafood dishes famed in the region.
As the sun begins to set, take a boat ride around the lagoon to witness the beautiful colors painting the sky. Return to shore and explore the local market, where you can shop for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Conclude your day with a traditional Moroccan dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying dishes like tagine or couscous.
Begin your day by embarking on a guided tour of Dakhla’s cultural sites, including the old Portuguese fort. Observe the city's unique architecture while your guide shares stories of Dakhla's rich history. Stop for breakfast at a local eatery where you can taste local favorites like msemen or harira soup.
Visit a nearby oasis to experience the beautiful desert landscapes and the local flora and fauna. Engage with the community by learning about their traditional farming practices and perhaps even partake in a cooking class focusing on local cuisine. Enjoy the afternoon sampling delicacies made with fresh ingredients sourced from the region.
Spend your evening at a traditional Moroccan tea house, where you can savor mint tea and pastries while enjoying live music. Take the opportunity to mingle with locals and share stories over delicious bites. End the night at a rooftop lounge, soaking in the panoramic views of Dakhla under a starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi starting fare | $1-3 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and a sheltered lagoon ideal for water sports
- Relaxed vibe with fresh seafood and friendly locals
- Relatively affordable lodging and generous sunshine
- Limited nightlife and few upscale entertainments
- Some services can be basic and English may be less common outside tourist areas
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Choukran" - Thank you
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
- "Mn fadlek" - Please
- "Kif dayr?" - How are you?
- "Shhal l-thaman?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Ad Dakhla
Visit one of these nice places.
Sweeping view of shallow blue-green waters, birds, and distant dunes; best at dawn or dusk.
Colorful boats, nets drying, and working harbor activity for vivid seascapes.
Promenade along the coast with dramatic skies and sea reflections for golden-hour shots.
Wind-carved dunes and expansive horizons ideal for wide landscapes and silhouettes.
Food in Ad Dakhla
Ad Dakhla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant fish tagine with preserved lemon, olives, and spices, typically served with couscous.
Must-Try!
Couscous layered with fish or seafood and saffron-infused broth.
Tomato-lentil soup commonly enjoyed for lunch or as a light meal while traveling.
Fresh sardines simply grilled with olive oil, lemon, and cumin.
A seafood-savory pastry that appears on some coastal menus with a hint of sweetness.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant daily market with fresh fish, produce, herbs, and street snacks.
Casual stalls along the water offering grilled seafood, olives, bread, and pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees in markets and religious sites; dress codes are more relaxed near the coast but respect local norms.
A handshake is common; among friends, greetings may include a kiss on the cheek in social settings.
During Ramadan, avoid public eating during daylight hours and be respectful of fasting practices.
Safety
Tipping in Ad Dakhla
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is appreciated; small tips for guides and hotel staff are common.
Cash is widely used (Moroccan dirhams). Some hotels and larger restaurants accept cards; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with increasing winds; great for coastal hikes and birdwatching around the lagoon.
Hot, windy, and dry; excellent conditions for wind sports; sunscreen and hydration essential.
Continued wind activity with milder daytime temperatures; comfortable for outdoor activities.
Mild days and cooler nights; very little rain; pleasant for exploring the city and beaches.
Ad Dakhla at Night
Hiking in Ad Dakhla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy hikes with impressive sea views and wind-carved dunes.
Guided or self-guided walks through sandy backcountry for sunset photography.
Airports
How to reach Ad Dakhla by plane.
A small regional airport serving Dakhla with domestic connections and some international seasonal services.
A larger hub in Western Sahara with connections to Casablanca and other Moroccan cities.
Major international gateway for long-haul connections and flight onward to other destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous groups with deep cultural roots influencing markets and crafts.
Residents from the Western Sahara region with distinct crafts and traditions.
Majority group speaking Darija and French in daily life.
Visitors who live and work in the area for fishing, tourism, or research.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class winds on the lagoon attract riders of all levels.
Wind-friendly conditions near the coast foster lively sessions.
Casual games on the expansive beaches are common in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ad Dakhla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in cafes and markets; request vegetable tagines or lentil-based dishes and confirm stock ingredients when ordering.